Maras, Moray, and Chinchero Cooking Class Full-Day Tour from Cusco

Cusco , Peru

Maras, Moray, and Chinchero Cooking Class Full-Day Tour from Cusco

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About this experience

This tour takes you to 3 magical places and offers a cooking lesson. First we go to Chinchero where we'll watch a demonstration of local weavers who are still using traditional Inca patterns and techniques for dyeing fabric. Then we'll receive a cooking lesson on how to make quinoa soup in a local staple after which we will share lunch with them. Continue on to Moray, an impressive Inca amphitheater and archaeological laboratory and finally finish at the salt mines of Maras, where we'll see locals harvesting salt like they have done since Inca times.

Available options

Maras, Moray, and Chinchero Cooking Class Full-Day Tour from Cusco

Pickup included

What's included

Local guide

Hotel pickup and drop-off

Quinoa soup for lunch

Transport by private vehicle

Detailed itinerary

You will be picked up at 8:30am by private driver at your hotel. From Cusco or the Sacred Valley, there is a 45-minute drive through beautiful mountains and farmlands to the town of Chinchero.

Our visit to Chinchero will consist of 3 parts. First we will visit the temple of the rainbow, one of the biggest Inca temples, in order to learn why they worshiped the rainbow. Next we will visit a church with murals depicting the Cusqueñan style of painting. This style of art combines traditional Inca imagery with Christian motifs. We will then walk through the beautiful village in Chinchero, ending in the women's weaving cooperative where we will watch a demonstration of local weavers who are still using traditional Inca patterns and techniques for dyeing fabric.Here you will have time to browse the shop which sells Inca style purses, tablecloths, wall hangings, and many other colorful and exquisitely patterned artisan goods. Finally, we will have a cooking lesson where the ladies will teach us how to make quinoa soup, a staple of their diet. After sharing lunch with them, we can dress up in the traditional clothing and hat of Chinchero and take some photos with the local women.

Stop 3

We will then drive for about 40-minute through the beautiful Sacred Valley to Moray where we will look down below to contemplate the concentric circles that made up an Incan agricultural laboratory. Hike down into the archaeological site with a private guided tour of the ruins that served as one of the main amphitheaters for the Incas where they performed rituals and ceremonies.

Stop 4

We will then continue 25-minute on to Maras stopping on the way to take photos and watch people harvesting potatoes or corn, before arriving to see an incredible collection of salt mines that have been used since pre-Inca times to evaporate salt from an underground. It is truly a breathtaking site. We can see people harvesting salt which is still used today in local restaurants and you can purchase some salt to bring home.

Return to Cusco or your hotel in the Sacred Valley.

What's not included

Alcoholic drinks

Entrance fees to Salt Mines $3.00

Entrance fee to Moray requires a Boleto Turistico: 130Soles ($37.00). This Boleto covers entrance to Pisac, Ollantaytambo, Chinchero, Moray, multiple museums in Cusco and Sacsayhuaman or 70 Soles ($23.00) which covers only some of these sites

Lunch other than quinoa soap

Available languages

Guide guide

EN ES

Reviews breakdown

Viator 4.0

1 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Tripadvisor 4.9

10 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Important information

Wheelchair accessible

Public transportation options are available nearby

Specialized infant seats are available

Transportation options are wheelchair accessible

Not recommended for pregnant travelers

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

A minimum of 2 people per booking is required

About Cusco

Cusco, the historic capital of the Inca Empire, is a captivating blend of Indigenous and colonial influences. Known for its well-preserved archaeological sites, vibrant culture, and stunning Andean landscapes, it's a gateway to Machu Picchu and the Sacred Valley. The city's rich history, combined with its lively arts scene and delicious cuisine, makes it a must-visit destination in South America.

Top Attractions

Sacred Valley

The Sacred Valley is a stunning region filled with Inca ruins, traditional villages, and breathtaking landscapes. It's a must-visit for history and nature lovers.

Historical/Nature Full day PEN 10-50 (USD 2.50-12.50) depending on the site

Machu Picchu

Machu Picchu is the iconic Inca citadel and one of the most famous archaeological sites in the world. Its breathtaking views and rich history make it a must-see.

Historical/Adventure Full day or overnight PEN 152 (USD 38) for entrance, train tickets vary

Qorikancha

Qorikancha, or the Temple of the Sun, was the most important temple in the Inca Empire. It's a fascinating blend of Inca and colonial architecture.

Historical/Religious 1-2 hours PEN 10 (USD 2.50)

Sacsayhuaman

Sacsayhuaman is a massive Inca fortress with impressive stone walls and panoramic views of Cusco. It's a testament to Inca engineering and military might.

Historical 1-2 hours PEN 10 (USD 2.50)

San Pedro Market

San Pedro Market is a bustling market offering a variety of fresh produce, local crafts, and traditional foods. It's a great place to experience local life.

Cultural/Food 1-2 hours Free to enter, prices vary for purchases

Must-Try Local Dishes

Cuy al Horno

Roasted guinea pig, a traditional Andean dish.

Main Course Not vegetarian

Lomo Saltado

Stir-fried beef with onions, tomatoes, and fries.

Main Course Can be made vegetarian

Aji de Gallina

Shredded chicken in a creamy, spicy sauce.

Main Course Not vegetarian

Sopa de Quinoa

Quinoa soup, a nutritious and traditional dish.

Soup Can be made vegetarian

Popular Activities

Hiking Trekking Mountain biking Whitewater rafting Visiting spas Exploring parks Enjoying local cafes Visiting museums

Best Time to Visit

May to September

This is the dry season, offering the best weather for exploring the city and its archaeological sites. The skies are clear, and temperatures are mild.

5°C to 20°C (41°F to 68°F) 41°F to 68°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: Spanish
Widely spoken: Quechua, English (in tourist areas)
English: Moderately spoken in tourist areas, limited elsewhere

Currency

Peruvian Sol (PEN)

Time Zone

GMT-5

Electricity

220VV, 50HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe with common-sense precautions

Cusco is generally safe for tourists, but petty crime can occur, especially in crowded areas. Be cautious with your belongings and avoid walking alone at night in poorly lit areas.

Important Precautions:

• Keep valuables secure
• Use reputable tour operators
• Be cautious with street food

Getting there

By air

Alejandro Velasco Astete International Airport • 5 km (3 miles) from city center

By train

San Pedro Station

By bus

Cusco Bus Terminal

Getting around

Public transport

Shared taxis (colectivos) are a common and affordable way to get around Cusco. They follow specific routes and can be flagged down.

Taxis

Available • Apps: InDriver, Easy Taxi

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Historic Center San Blas San Cristobal

Day trips

Pisac

35 km (22 miles) from Cusco • Full day

Pisac is a charming town known for its vibrant market and impressive Inca ruins. It's a great day trip from Cusco.

Ollantaytambo

60 km (37 miles) from Cusco • Full day or overnight

Ollantaytambo is a picturesque town with well-preserved Inca ruins and a gateway to Machu Picchu. It's a must-visit for history and adventure lovers.

Tipon

25 km (16 miles) from Cusco • Half day

Tipon is a beautiful archaeological site with well-preserved Inca terraces and water channels. It's a peaceful and less crowded alternative to other Inca sites.

Festivals

Inti Raymi • June 24 Cusco Festival of Music and Dance • August

Pro tips

Acclimatize to the altitude before engaging in strenuous activities
Dress in layers to accommodate changing temperatures
Learn a few basic phrases in Spanish or Quechua to enhance your experience
Visit the San Pedro Market early in the morning for the best selection and prices
Book tickets and train tickets in advance for Machu Picchu and other popular attractions